Bulls hold thumbs on Hougaard return

The Bulls are hopeful that Francois Hougaard will return to play Super Rugby for them next season.

The Blue Bulls Company on Friday announced the departure of several stalwarts, who will part ways with the Bulls at the completion of the 2015 Super Rugby tournament.

Hougaard, who can play scrumhalf and wing, was confirmed as one of the players to depart.

He will leave for Japan later this year and depending on a number of factors, will make a call on whether to return to Loftus Versfeld for next year’s Super Rugby competition.

According to the BBC's High Performance Manager, Xander Janse van Rensburg, negotiations with Hougaard is ongoing. "He is going to Canon in Japan, but we are still hoping to see him back here for next year's Super Rugby tournament. We are working hard at a possible deal and we are hoping that a national contract could aid our cause. He is a sought-after player because of his versatility."

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